Dennis Alexander Interview

Practical, Purposeful and Plentiful - the Music of Dennis Alexander
NOV 14, 4-5pm EST
This Musicale session will explore some of the works by American educational composer, Dennis Alexander. He will discuss his creative process while offering tips on how to compose award-winning compositions for students at all levels. His 50-year career as a performer/teacher has also been very influential in his success as a composer of materials for pianists of all ages and abilities.
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Short Bio
Since his affiliation with Alfred Publishing Company in 1986 as a composer and clinician, Dennis Alexander has earned an international reputation as one of North America's most prolific and popular composers of educational piano music for students at all levels. Professor Alexander retired from his position at the University of Montana in May 1996 where he taught piano and piano pedagogy for 24 years. Upon moving to California, he taught privately in addition to serving on the faculties of Cal State Fullerton and Cal State Northridge. He currently lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico where he maintains an active composing and touring schedule.
Over the years, numerous organizations and state associations have commissioned him to write compositions. Many of his compositions are included in the National Federation of Music Study Clubs Festival required list and his music is being performed by students throughout the United States, Canada, South Africa, Australia, Asia, and Europe. One of Mr. Alexander's most significant contributions to the repertoire is "24 Character Preludes" in all major and minor keys which includes a CD with Dennis Alexander as soloist. In 2015, he was honored by the National Conference on Keyboard Pedagogy with the “Lifetime Achievement Award”. He is also a co-author of an exciting and innovative piano method entitled "Alfred's Premier Piano Course". A chamber music work, entitled “Dance Suite” for piano, violin, and cello was commissioned by MTNA in 2013. His “Nocturnes for Piano”, Bks. 1 & 2 were recently selected as the recipient of the prestigious 2020 MTNA/Frances Clark Pedagogy Award. Mr. Alexander’s personal website, www.DennisAlexander.com has become a favorite with piano teachers and features a complete listing of publications by levels, videos, teaching tips, reviews, and much more!